So, what is ADHD?
It is a neuro-developmental condition so starts in early childhood. Symptoms are present across all areas of a young person’s life e.g. at home and school.
The symptoms are generally always present.
ADHD can be diagnosed from age 5, Symptoms are usually noticeable before the age of 12. It is estimated to affect approximately 3-5% of the population.
Core Symptoms include:
- Poor attention and concentration
- Short attention span and easily distracted
- Making careless mistakes or rushing work
- Being forgetful and frequently losing things
- Difficulties staying on task
- Difficulties following instructions
- Flitting between different activities
- Poor organisational skills
- Hyperactivity
- Being unable to sit still
- Constant fidgeting
- Excessive talking
- Racing thoughts – difficulties switching off
- Impulsivity
- Unable to wait to take turns
- Shouting out answers
- Acting without thinking
- Having little sense of danger
ADHD is frequently overlapped with other neurodevelopmental conditions, e.g. Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Tics and Autism spectrum disorders.
Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD can lead to challenges at school at home.
It can lead to underachievement at school, difficulties with social interaction, and behavioural difficulties.
